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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesChapter 14: Diseases of the genitourinary systemN11

N11

Billable

Chronic tubulo-interstitial nephritis

Chapter 14:Diseases of the genitourinary system

BILLABLE STATUSYes
IMPLEMENTATION DATEOctober 1, 2015
LAST UPDATED09/18/2025

Code Description

ICD-10 N11 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of chronic tubulo-interstitial nephritis.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Chronic tubulo-interstitial nephritis (CTIN) is a progressive kidney disease characterized by inflammation and fibrosis of the renal interstitium and tubules. It can result from various etiologies, including prolonged urinary tract obstruction, recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs), and exposure to nephrotoxic agents such as certain medications. Pyelonephritis, a type of kidney infection, can lead to CTIN if recurrent or untreated, causing damage to the renal parenchyma. Drug-induced nephropathy, particularly from nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and certain antibiotics, can also contribute to the development of CTIN. Patients may present with symptoms such as fatigue, hypertension, and signs of renal impairment. Diagnosis typically involves a combination of clinical evaluation, laboratory tests, and imaging studies to assess kidney function and structure. Management may include addressing underlying causes, such as treating UTIs or discontinuing nephrotoxic drugs, and may involve the use of antibiotics for infections. Long-term monitoring of renal function is essential to prevent progression to end-stage renal disease.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variety of underlying causes (e.g., drug-induced, infectious)
  • Need for comprehensive documentation of patient history
  • Differentiation from acute interstitial nephritis
  • Potential for co-morbid conditions affecting renal function

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of chronicity
  • Failure to specify underlying causes
  • Misclassification with acute conditions
  • Lack of follow-up documentation

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Nephrology

Documentation Requirements

Detailed history of renal function, laboratory results, and imaging studies.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Management of patients with chronic kidney disease secondary to CTIN.

Billing Considerations

Ensure documentation reflects the chronic nature and any contributing factors.

Urology

Documentation Requirements

Records of urinary tract infections, imaging studies, and surgical interventions.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients with recurrent UTIs leading to chronic kidney damage.

Billing Considerations

Document any surgical history related to urinary tract obstruction.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use N11 When
  • According to ICD
  • 10 guidelines, N11 should be used when there is clear documentation of chronic tubulo
  • interstitial nephritis
  • It is important to specify any underlying causes or contributing factors

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use N11 When
  • Exclude cases of acute interstitial nephritis unless chronicity is established

Related CPT Codes

81002CPT Code

Urinalysis, automated, with microscopy

Clinical Scenario

Used to evaluate renal function and detect urinary tract infections.

Documentation Requirements

Document the reason for urinalysis and any relevant patient history.

Specialty Considerations

Nephrologists may require additional lab tests to assess kidney function.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of chronic conditions like CTIN, improving the accuracy of patient records and facilitating better management strategies.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of chronic conditions like CTIN, improving the accuracy of patient records and facilitating better management strategies.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of chronic conditions like CTIN, improving the accuracy of patient records and facilitating better management strategies.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    Chronic Kidney Disease: A Guide for Patients

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    Chronic Kidney Disease: A Guide for Patients

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the common causes of chronic tubulo-interstitial nephritis?

Common causes include recurrent urinary tract infections, prolonged use of nephrotoxic medications, and chronic obstruction of the urinary tract.